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Meet Johnny Shelby, the driving force behind Third Coast Training!
I appreciate the opportunity to share my story with you. I launched my coaching career in 2004 when my friend and I decided to become full-time endurance and multisport coaches in Houston, TX. As the head of the performance lab, I identified a crucial gap in fitness training. I observed that many individuals followed exercise programs that didn’t align with their goals, leading to frustration, plateaus, or program abandonment. This realization fueled my passion to become a leading triathlon coach, specializing in comprehensive fitness testing for athletes of all abilities. I’ve discovered that endurance athletes possess remarkable fat-burning capabilities, primarily due to their well-developed aerobic base. My expertise lies in identifying and enhancing this foundation – because the stronger the base, the faster an athlete can perform.
In 2007, I expanded my vision by relocating to Northwest Arkansas and establishing Third Coast Training. I operated a performance lab in Fayetteville while providing specialized fitness testing at the Walmart Corporate Fitness Center in Bentonville. For those searching for a “triathlon coach near me” in these areas, we offered comprehensive training solutions.
A significant milestone occurred in 2013 when Third Coast Training in Pasadena, TX, earned recognition from USA Triathlon as the nation’s eighth USA Triathlon Certified Performance Center. This prestigious designation required meeting stringent criteria established by USA Triathlon, confirming our commitment to excellence in multisport training.
Today, as an experienced triathlon coach, I continue to find immense satisfaction in helping clients achieve their diverse goals – whether they’re focusing on fat loss, speed improvement, or rediscovering their love for fitness. My client base spans from enthusiastic twenty-somethings to dedicated septuagenarians. We particularly welcome newcomers while also supporting competitive age-group athletes. Triathlon encompasses multiple disciplines, and each athlete brings unique strengths and areas for improvement. I recognize that every individual is different, and I’m grateful for my clients’ trust in helping them maximize their potential.
How was my start as a Fulltime coach?
My first year as a full-time coach presented typical business challenges. Through dedicated effort, we reached our break-even point after 12 months. Interestingly, many early clients kept their training advantage private, seeking to maintain their competitive edge. As these athletes began showing remarkable improvements, word naturally spread about our effective coaching methods. Their successes became powerful testimonials for our training approach.
More on my business.
As a dedicated triathlon coach, I take pride in Third Coast Training’s recognition in 2013 as the nation’s eighth USA Triathlon Certified Performance Center by USA Triathlon. Our Greater Houston location stands unique with this prestigious designation. I actively lead our daily operations alongside my team of certified coaches.
Our state-of-the-art facility offers comprehensive services designed for optimal athletic performance. Athletes can access our advanced human performance lab, professional massage therapy services, and a heated indoor endless pool for personalized swim instruction. We provide detailed video analysis and performance testing to enhance training effectiveness. Both members and non-members can benefit from our USA Triathlon Certified Coaches’ expertise, while also accessing specialized consultations in physical therapy, and sports psychology.
What was I like as a kid?
My childhood as a military family member shaped my adaptability and determination. My father, a Marine Force Recon veteran, instilled in me a powerful drive for excellence. His influence, particularly through his “6 P’s” philosophy, helped me develop a highly motivated and goal-oriented mindset that proved valuable throughout my life. My active lifestyle included diverse activities – from scouting to various sports including cross country, track and field, baseball, and wrestling. I’m thankful for my parents’ active involvement in fostering both my athletic and social development. My passion for running flourished particularly during our time in California and Oregon, where the challenging terrain provided excellent training grounds.
But wait there’s more.
June 18th, 2024, I suffered a terrible car crash that nearly took my life. I’ve been sharing my journey in parts, detailing how I got back to running. Running is my passion, don’t stop me.
